Hoops gaffer raging at Furuhashi dive claims

Ange Postecoglou has hit back at critics who have suggested Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi goes down too easily.

The Japan international’s whirlwind start to his Hoops career, since arriving from Vissel Kobe, has brought 14 goals amid a series of terrific performances, but has also attracted criticism about some other parts of his game.

Former Rangers midfielder Alex Rae claimed Furuhashi’s reaction to a slap from Livingston defender Ayo Obileye, which earned the Hoops a late penalty was embarrassing, while former Premier League referee Keith Hackett claimed the Celtic striker should be fined by the SFA for “exaggerating”.

Ahead of the Europa League dead rubber against Real Betis at Parkhead tonight, the Hoops boss jumped to the defence of Furuhashi when asked about a developing narrative of the player being a diver.

“Who are these brave people, these warriors, who are out there, who are accusing people?” said Postecoglou, who confirmed injured Portuguese forward Jota will miss the Premier Sports Cup final against Hibernian.

“Kyogo is the size of a jockey, he is playing against guys who are almost a foot taller than him and all these brave warriors on the outside are casting aspersions, are they?

“I haven’t read it, I won’t read it.

“You end up in arguments with ignorant people, you’ll eventually become one of them. So I ignore that narrative as you painted it.”

Postecoglou had stated that the hamstring injury Jota sustained against Hearts last Thursday would keep him out for a few weeks but has now confirmed he will not be fit for the final against Hibs on December 19.

The 22-year-old on-loan Benfica attacker has been one of the Hoops’ top performers this season, with eight goals so far.